Printer maintenance: keep it running smoothly for years

For inkjet printers

• Print at least a little every week or two so ink doesn't dry in the nozzles.
• Run a nozzle check before important jobs; clean only if needed.
• Keep the printer in a stable, dust-free spot out of direct sun.
• Use good-quality paper to reduce dust and jams.

For laser printers

• Clean the corona wire (Brother) or rollers when prints show streaks.
• Gently rock toner to extend it; replace the drum when prints show repeating marks.
• Vacuum loose toner dust carefully — never with a normal household vacuum near the toner.

For every printer

• Keep firmware and drivers up to date.
• Wipe the scanner glass and ADF strip for clean copies and scans.
• Power the printer off properly so the head parks/caps (inkjets) rather than yanking the plug.